Tamerix Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Tamerix Lake Dam, located in Bartholomew County, Indiana, was completed in 1940 and serves as a recreational water resource on an unnamed tributary of Denios Creek.


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Summary

The dam is a 24-foot earthen structure with a length of 480 feet and a storage capacity of 111 acre-feet. Despite its primary purpose for recreation, the dam holds a significant hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment and high risk assessment rating.

The dam is privately owned and regulated by the Indiana Department of Natural Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement protocols in place. The last inspection in 2018 revealed the poor condition of the dam, indicating the need for immediate attention to ensure public safety and the integrity of the structure. With a significant hazard potential and high risk rating, stakeholders and officials must prioritize risk management measures and maintenance to mitigate any potential threats posed by the dam.

Given its historical significance and recreational value, Tamerix Lake Dam stands as an important water resource in the region. However, its condition assessment and risk assessment highlight the urgent need for proactive maintenance and risk management to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and visitors. With proper attention and investment, the dam can continue to serve as a valuable asset for recreation while safeguarding against potential hazards.

Year Completed

1940

Dam Length

480

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

UNNAMED TRIBUTARY DENIOS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.2

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

111

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.